I wrote the following response to a post which has since been deleted. I think it's worth reading, so I am re-posting it with personal information removed.

Conflict is unusual on these forums, but not unheard of. The criterion I use is this: If a response speaks to a principle or idea, then it's just a disagreement. If it gets personal, i.e., attacks me, calls names, or is insulting, that person is not worthy of my attention and gets blocked. (Did you know you can do that?) Plus, if it gets truly nasty, a moderator will step in and either close the discussion, or even delete it. Extreme unpleasantness has resulted in users being banned.

Several years ago I got into a knock-down, drag-out political argument with a highly respected forum member that went on for days. Most observers thought it would be shut down, but it never got personal and it was allowed to reach its conclusion. We still disagree, but we also respect each other greatly.

I hope this helps affected members reach some understanding and find peace with what goes on here.

Richard

"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."